That’s a problem. According to an AARP report, U.S. companies lose more than $33.6 billion a year in lost productivity from full-time employees. Absenteeism. Distraction. Unavailability. Stress. Leaving the workforce altogether.

More enlightened businesses offer information and support services, including workplace flexibility, discounted back-up home care for emergencies, access to geriatric care managers and paid time off.

Jody Gastfriend, a social worker and vice president of care management at care.com, says many employees don’t realize that their companies offer eldercare benefits. (Others are reluctant to use them, thinking they’ll be seen as uncommitted, or be risking their jobs if they do.)